The climate Of Jammu and Kashmir varies greatly owing to its topography. The UT of Jammu and Kashmir is divided into following climatic zones.
1.Subtropical : This type of climatic conditions can be experienced in Jammu province. Especially in those areas which are lying below the elevation of 1200M , Sub-tropical climatic conditions covers the plains of Jammu provine i.e Kathua, Jammu, Samba, Bishnah, RSPura, and their surrounding hilly areas of , Reasi, Udhampur, Sunderbani, Nowshehra, Kalakote, Ramban, Rajouri, Ramgarh parts of Mendhar( Shiwalik Range). Summer’s days are long and hot. Sometimes maximum temperature reaches upto 47°C during summer. These areas received good amount of Rainfall during monsoon season. Winters days are warmth and pleasant in these areas.
2. Intermittent Temperate.: This type of climatic conditions experienced in the hilly areas of Jammu province which are situated at an elevation of approximately 1250M and above upto 1700M. The climate Of these areas is much similar to Kashmir valley. Intermittent Temperate climate can be experienced in Batote, Bhaderwah, Surankote, Mandi, Upper areas of Mendhar and Haveli, ThannaMandi, Darhal, Budhal, Gool, Gulabgarh, Thatri, Bani and their adjoining areas. Strong monsoon current can be experienced in these areas during June to September. Snowfall is quite common in these areas during winters under the influence of Western Disturbance.
3. Temperate: This type of climatic conditions can be experienced in the plains of Kashmir valley and parts of Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, Ramban, Kishtwar and Doda districts. Temperate climate usually found in those areas of the UT which are lying above 1500M AMSL. Summer’s are warmth and winters are cold in these areas. Snowfall is common in these areas from November to March.
4.Cold Temperate: This type of climatic conditions can be experienced in those areas of UT which are lying at an altitude of 3000M and above. It covers mainly the higher reaches of the UT. Summer’s days are very pleasant and winters are very cold. Heavy snowfall is common in these areas resulting the formation of glaciers in the deep gorges which are the sources of parrenial Rivers in the UT. Snowfall can be experienced in these areas mostly from Mid September to April. The areas of UT where such type of climate is found are Gurez, Tangdhar, Karnah, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Upper higher reaches of Kulgam, Shopian, Anantnag, Surankote, Mandi, Budhal, Gulabgarh, Banihal, Bhaderwah and Kishtwar.
